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 The Molt
Though a normal process, 
care should be taken during this stressful time

 
Molting is the normal process by which a bird replaces his feathers. Broken and disheveled feathers can not be repaired and so once a year or so, the bird will systematically drop feathers and replace them with new ones.  Most birds molt annually, though there is some fluctuation between species. Frequency of molt can also be affected by age, seasonal changes, hours of daylight and breeding activity.

Though there is some fluctuation between species, most birds drop a few feathers at a time and then grow replacement feathers using the same feather follicle.  This process allows the bird to maintain their ability to fly during the molt.  Even so, the process is taxing and most species become subdued and a bit lethargic. There are a number of things you can do to help your bird during this stressful time:

  • A quiet setting with places to hide will help your bird feel more comfortable.
  • Offer a good clean water supply with many opportunities to bathe.  (Aviclens will help keep water fresh and safe)
  • Avoid the use of medications during the molt as some will effect feather quality.
  • Proper nutrition will allow your bird to go through their molt with a minimum of stress.  
Though a normal process, the molt can be very taxing nutritionally.  Feathers are made up of primarily proteins. Proteins consist of 21 different amino acids. The 2 essential amino acids ( Lysine and Methionine) are especially important during the molt. These two amino acids also tend to be in short supply in most birds diets.

But the bird needs more that just the essential amino acids.  Huge amounts of energy, vitamins, fats and minerals are also needed for the bird to quickly grow their new feathers and regain their vigor.  By supplying proper nutrition, the bird is able to shed and replace feathers more quickly and able to produce strong, tight feathers that will serve them well in the coming year. 

Without the proper nutrition, The bird can experience a number of set backs:

  • the molt will progress much more slowly
  • New feathers may be incomplete or missing.
  • New feathers may be discolored or of poor color intensity
  • New feathers may remain in the sheath (the shaft that covers newly grown feathers which normally falls away after the feather has grown out)
  • new feathers can grow out brittle and dull.  They are then more apt to break during the coming year.
  • the bird can become weakened and susceptible to illness


    • Feather up has been specially designed to give your bird the specific nutrients needed for a successful molt.  Birds progress through the molt quickly, comfortably and produce strong shiny feathers. 

    See the amazing photo journal of Lady gouldian rescue using Feather up
     

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